What Is Heavy Paper Stock?
Heavy paper stock is a term used to describe a thicker type of paper than typing or copying paper. You might see this heavier paper used for invitations, post cards, brochures, booklet covers or craft projects. The nature of your project can help determine the thickness of paper you use.
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Identification
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A paper stock refers to its specific type or quality. Heavy paper stock is often called card stock (or cover paper) and may be purchased at any copy store, printing business or office supply retailer.
Choosing a Paper
Performance
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The pound weight refers to the weight of a specific amount of the paper. For example, 500 sheets of 80-lb. cover stock weighs 80 pounds. More pounds can mean heavier paper, but not always, so be sure to see the product for yourself to decide if it's right for your project.
Evaluating
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You can feel the difference between thicker papers and thinner papers the way you might with cloth, by touching it. You can also request that the paper be measured with a micrometer for a more precise indicator.
Types
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Some types of paper you might come in contact with when looking for the right stock would include cover stock and cover text. Cover stock will not bend as easily as cover text. Some paper that measures between 60 lb. and 80 lb. will fold easily. With anything over 80 lb., however, it will be difficult to get a straight fold.
Fiber Content
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Most paper for book printing today is made from wood pulp, though higher quality papers are made from cotton. You can also find companies that sell paper made of non-plant sources and recycled paper.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit paper image by AGphotographer from Fotolia.com paper angels image by GeoM from Fotolia.com